Chat about the Mercedes Championship

Welcome to The Show! The 2006 golf season is under way with the Mercedes Championships at the Kapalua Resort in Lahaina, Hawaii and The Show is there!

We'll be talking golf from 7-10:30 p.m. ET during each day of the tournament (Jan. 5-8, ESPN), kicking off with PGA Tour veteran and 2004 BellSouth Classic champion Zach Johnson at 7 p.m. ET on Thursday.

The Show will be hosted by ESPN.com golf editor Jason Sobel, who will be joined by golf writers, officials and tournament players! So while you are watching the tournament unfold on ESPN, keep it right here in The Show for the latest from Kapalua.

Stuart Appleby is back to defend his 2005 Mercedes title while top-10 players Vijay Singh, Sergio Garcia and Jim Furyk will also be battling for the 2006 crown.

Send in your questions to Jason now! Then join The Show tonight at 7 p.m. ET to talk golf! You never know who might stop by!

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(5:33 PM)

Sure, it seems like the 2005 golf season just ended, but the PGA Tour's 2006 season is right around the corner. Start sending in your questions and comments now about the Mercedes Championships and the upcoming year. We'll answer your questions live from the beautiful Kapalua resort on Maui with plenty of special guests throughout the week. Aloha!

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(6:08 PM)

Ladies and gentlemen...we're less than one hour away from the beginning of The Show at the Mercedes Championships! Joining us at 7 p.m. ET (2 p.m. Hawaiian time!) is 2004 BellSouth Classic winner Zach Johnson. And at 10 p.m., Hank Haney will answer questions about your golf swing. In between, we'll be speaking with plenty of players and writers, so stay tuned throughout. And start firing away questions for Zach!

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(6:58 PM)

Aloha! Welcome to The Show! Let's get it under way with Zach Johnson, who joins us live from Florida...

Zach Johnson

(7:00 PM)

First-time caller...good to be here. 5'11, 160. DING!

James (New York)

What are you most looking forward to this season, the 2006 PGA TOUR season?

Zach Johnson

(7:03 PM)

Being my third year out here, I feel like I've got my feet wet and I know the ins and outs of the Tour, I understand my limitations, so I can really attack the s chedule in a manner that best fits me. Outside of that, I'm really, really excited because it's a Ryder Cup year and about the majors.

George Pearson,British Columbia Canada

Zach Johnson

(7:06 PM)

Good question. I personally believe soft spikes are just as frustrating to putt through as metal spikes because of the craters they create. Metal spikes are really only detrimental on soft greens. Also, the Tour is about 50/50 on metal and soft spikes.

James (New York)

Best player yet to win a major?

Zach Johnson

(7:08 PM)

That is a very difficult question only because there are so many good players who have yet to win a major. However, looking at experience, grittiness and an overall consistent game, I would say Chris DiMarco...he also lives up the street from me.

Cayne (Federal Way, WA)

What's your current world ranking? Do you even pay attention to the rankings?

Zach Johnson

(7:09 PM)

I do not know my World Ranking. I know that it is about 50 in the world. I typically do not look at my ranking, nor do I look at many of my other stats until the end of the year. I do not want to get caught up in numbers, I leave that up to my instructor, Mike Bender.

DC (Connecticut)

What are your thoughts on the new PGA TOUR schedule/FEDEX Cup for 2007?

Zach Johnson

(7:13 PM)

I serve on the Player Advisory Committee (PAC) board, which played an integral part in forming the schedule. I am excited about the 2007 season and beyond because the PGA Tour product is already very good and having a season-ending Cup or end-of-the-season splash, if you will, can only make it better. The schedule and the Cup should really keep fans and attract fans and the game of golf.

James (New York)

Do you ever see the TOUR going to a uniform ball? And if not the TOUR, perhaps the Masters?

Zach Johnson

(7:15 PM)

I don't necessarily see the Tour going to a uniform ball because of the new standards and new limitations the USGA has implemented recently. Technology in general may have hit its ceiling (for a while anyway). As far as the Masters, they can do anything they want, to an extent, and I'll still play.

Josh Greenville, SC

I grew up and went to high school with Lucas Glover. Any thoughts on what type of year to expect from him after breaking through and winning the Funai last year?

Zach Johnson

(7:18 PM)

I see Lucas continuing his good play in 2006 and beyond. He is a young talent who will only get better as he gains more experience. In playing with him, he has all the tools to be a multi-winner and long-lasting PGA Tour player.

Zach Johnson

(7:18 PM)

Even though he went to Clemson!

Grant (Detroit)

Hi Zach, who do you feel has the best chance of breaking out from last years Nationwide grads. Much like you did 2 years ago. Good Luck this year!

Zach Johnson

(7:22 PM)

I would say the obvious choice would be Troy Matteson due to his consistent play and record-breaking performances. As far as experience goes, I like some of the veterans' chances -- like Chris Couch, Jeff Gove, David Branshaw and Jerry Smith. Experience on the PGA Tour level is the key ingredient to success.

st. louis

whos winning the playoffs

Zach Johnson

(7:24 PM)

I assume you're talking NFL ... right now, I would not want to be a team that had to play the Bears, the Patriots and obviously the Colts. However, I am a Broncos fan so I see Denver all the way.

Zach Johnson

(7:25 PM)

Go Broncos!

Mike (LA, CA)

Zach, if you were only granted one major, what would it be and (if its USO, BO or PGA) which course?

Zach Johnson

(7:26 PM)

I would want to win the U.S. Open because it's our nation's premier event. And it's arguably golf's hardest test. I would like to win the U.S. Open on any course the USGA puts it on. Winged Foot would be great, since it's this year. If I grew up in Georgia or Southern California, I'd probably say different.

Johan Lindeberg (Sweden)

Who in your mind is the best dressed on tour?

Zach Johnson

(7:28 PM)

Jesper Parnevik, because he wears what he wants. However, my wife might choose differently.

Dave (Honolulu)

Just a quick question about equipment. Are you guys bound by your sponsors to only play their equipment or are you free to experiment as you wish?

Zach Johnson

(7:30 PM)

Most players' contracts are different than the next. Some are limited more than others and some have more freedom than others to play what they want. When it comes down to it, equipment manufacturers all make pretty good stuff.

B-Dawg (Dillard, Georgia)

Coming from your perspective, should Michelle Wie be allowed to compete in PGA events this year?

Zach Johnson

(7:34 PM)

I have actually played with Michelle and in seeing how she plays the game of golf, she is a phenom who shouldn't be limited, to an extent. If a PGA Tour sponsor has an available sponsor's exemption and chooses Michelle Wie as one of their exemptions, there really is nothing but positives for that tournament, its charities, its volunteers and all of its fans. Not many athletes like Michelle Wie, gender aside, come along that often.

Zach Johnson

(7:34 PM)

Thanks for all your questions. Look forward to seeing you all at a PGA Tour stop.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(7:37 PM)

Thanks to Zach for taking the time to join us. We'll have more players coming in to chat as they come off the course, but for now I'll be holding court as we talk about the tournament and the upcoming season. Keep firing away those questions!

John (Georgetown, ON)

Hi there, I am looking for a few sleeper picks for the upcoming season. Do you see any players out there that will significantly increase their earnings in 2006. Guys that come to mind are David Howell, Arjun Atwal, Tim Clark and Kirk Tripplet (assuming he is recovered from his injury). Best wishes in 2006.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(7:41 PM)

Not sure we can call Clark a sleeper anymore. I've thought he's a terrific player for some time now and wouldn't be surprised to see him take a major as soon as this year. Howell isn't much of a sleeper either, since he's the 13th ranked player in the world. It'll be interesting to see how he fares with a full season in the U.S. Atwal made my list of the top 10 sleeper picks earlier today. You can see the whole list in our new golf blog: http://insider.espn.go.com/espn/blog/index?name=golf

dixon (conn)

geoff ogilvy is the biggest sleeper on tour, if he's playing well he can compete with the best

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(7:42 PM)

Dixon, stop stealing my ideas. I think Ogilvy puts it all together this year and has a fantastic season. Again, not sure he's a sleeper, but he can flat-out play.

John (Palm Desert)

Do you think this is the year tha we may finally see a European win a major. Possibly the Open at Hoylake?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(7:44 PM)

Ah, the Curse of Paul Lawrie. Or is it the Curse of Jean Van de Velde? No European has won since Van de Velde removed his socks and shoes in '99 (when Lawrie took the playoff). Sure, this could be the year. There are plenty of choices, between Sergio Garcia, Luke Donald, David Howell and, of course, Monty. This might surprise you, but if I had to pick one European to win a big one, I'd go with Howell. He reminds me of Retief Goosen.

Jared, Enfield, CT

Jason, Great Show! Any talk about any new hot equipment coming out in 2006? A golf friend of mine needs all the help he can get.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(7:47 PM)

I think I know your friend -- and yes, he does need help. There are a lot of great new products out there this year, but nothing is getting a bigger buzz than Nike's SasQuatch driver, which should hit the shelves soon (if it hasn't already). Golf Digest's Hot List ranked it as the new #1 driver for '06.

Nick (NJ)

How many tournaments and how many majors do you expect Tiger to win this year?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(7:49 PM)

He won six PGA Tour events and two majors a year ago and I think that's a reasonable estimation for '06 as well. I don't think he'll dominate, meaning say 10 wins and three majors, but he won't be shut out by any means.

Jim (Raleigh NC)

Jason, Courses are getting longer and longer now, how long should they play and/or should they try to Tiger proof them?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(7:52 PM)

This whole sense of "Tiger-proofing" never really made any sense. If Tiger is one of the longest hitters around and courses are being lengthened, well isn't that really "Tiger-aiding" rather than "Tiger-proofing"? Personally, I would love to see more short, tight courses like HarbourTown and Colonial -- those are two of my favorite events every year. But don't expect more courses like that to be popping up on the Tour schedule anytime soon.

Jerry, Ivanhoe MN

Jason Good Stuff!! Hey why dont they let the top two finishers form esch tournament into the Mercedes. Just an idea but it sure would boost the field and start the season out with a little more punch!!

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(7:55 PM)

It's a good idea, but doesn't exactly play into the tradition of this event. Before it was the Mercedes, this event was called the Tournament of Champions (many older players still refer to it as such). Covering tournaments, one of the coolest things is, after a player wins an event, he gets the inevitable question about going to Maui the next year and the guy always has a big smile on his face when he speaks about it. I think second-place finishers playing in this event would dilute the product.

Rasheed (Atlanta)

Should the "Winners Only" Mercedes Championships be moved to a date later in the tournament schedule, so as to avoid having so many marquee players skip the event?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(7:57 PM)

Again, it's about tradition. This is a great way to kick off the season. Sure, it would be nice to have Woods, Mickelson, Goosen and Harrington here, but if this event was moved to, say, March there's no guarantee they'd show up then, either. It also happens to fit well into the schedule, as the tour moves from West to East across the country.

Doug Benton (Yuba City, CA)

What kind of year do you see for Sergio Garcia? Is this finally the year he breaks through in the majors?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(7:58 PM)

Doug, last year Sergio hit the ball as well as anyone, leading the Tour in GIR percentage. But his putting was atrocious for a player of his caliber. Until he turns that around, he won't sniff a major. I think he'll putt better this year, but I don't see him winning a major anytime soon.

wardbro (portland OR)

do you think ben crane could win a major as soon as this year.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:00 PM)

Can he win? Maybe. Can he contend? Absolutely. Crane is a terrific talent and does what Sergio doesn't -- he putts the ball well. That's why Crane will win a big one before Garcia will. Good to hear from a Crane fan from his home state of Oregon.

ben (oregon)

what do you think about an offical PGA tournament where you had to use persimmon woods and throwback clubs

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:02 PM)

An official event like that would never happen, for many, many reason. But a one-day Silly Season type of event? I think it would be a fantastic idea. I'd love to see, say a lumber company that dealt with persimmon, sponsor a tournament like that, with several big-name pros taking part.

Jared (Avon,CT)

Speaking of Ben Crane is the PGA Tour going to do anything about slow play this year.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:03 PM)

I recently read something in Golfweek that stated no player has ever been given a two-stroke penalty for slow play. So if the PGA Tour did that once this year, it would set a record. Don't hold your breath, though.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:10 PM)

Carl Pettersson, just off the course after an impressive 2-under 71, will join us just after he finishes greeting the press in the interview room. Start sending in your questions for the winner of last year's Fall Finish ... he'll be here in just a few minutes.

Mike (LA, CA)

What kind of schedule should we look for out of Ernie Els this year? Also, will Lee Trevino play a full Champions Tour schedule?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:12 PM)

Expect Els to play the same amount of PGA Tour events as he normally does when healthy, but cut back on the amount of worldwide tournaments. He normally plays everywhere, but I could see him concentrating on the U.S. events more in '06.

Andrew (cincinnati)

Do you think that since Jason Gore has won a tournament, can he be a major competitor this season on tour

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:16 PM)

I actually think Gore may suffer a bit if a setback this year. He played great for the last six months of '05, but I think the adrenaline rush could wear off a bit. That said, he's already one of the nicest guys on Tour and I hope he stays up there all year -- it's good for the game to have another superstar.

Alex Aksenchik (KANSAS CITY, JAMAICA)

Do you think a women WILL EVER make a cut at a PGA event?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:18 PM)

Absolutely. It could happen as early as next week, with Michelle Wie returning to the Sony. She'll play in a lot of PGA Tour events in her career and she'll make plenty of cuts.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:19 PM)

Blair (Chicago)

Speaking of women, will the Pressel/Wie/Creamer gang against Annika be enough to bring the women's game up to parity with their tennis counterparts (we'd be naive to think the purses will equal the men's)?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:22 PM)

I think we're still a way off from the women receiving similar purses as the men. That said, the LPGA is going to be incredibly entertaining this year -- perhaps as much or more so than the PGA Tour -- with Annika being challenged by the young guns. For the sake of the game, I really hope Creamer, Pressel and Gulbis keep it up, with non-member Wie right behind them.

Graig (San Antonio)

What type of schedule will Ryan Moore play this year and will he make an impact?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:24 PM)

From everything I hear, Moore will play a full PGA Tour schedule this year. And anywhere he plays, he's a factor. Golf World listed him in their top-30 for '06. I'm not so sure, but he could come close.

Bob (Grand Rapids, MI)

Do you foresee any non-marquee players coming up and challenging the big fellas this year on a consistent basis?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:26 PM)

I actually wrote a Weekly 18 column last week detailing which players will make The Leap. Among them, I think Tim Clark and Geoff Ogilvy are primed for stardom. You can find the whole piece here: http://sports.espn.go.com/golf/news/story?id=2275542

Robert (Berkeley)

I was wondering what you thought about Camillo Villegas's chances of winning a tournament this year?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:27 PM)

Another guy who makes my list. I think he's a great talent. He's a rookie and he's young, but I could definitely see Villegas taking an opposite-field or smaller,, late-season event. Maybe the Tucson event or B.C. Open.

kerem (baltimore)

do you think there is any chance that we see annika at a pga tour event this year? and should women be allowed to play at the wgc match play event? I think top women players like annika, pressel can be really good in match play.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:29 PM)

No chance Annika will play with the men again. She's said it was a great experience, but she's also said she wouldn't do it again. The Match Play is for the world's top 64 only. If a woman played enough mens' events and qualified, that would be fine. But no one will ever be given an exemption into that event.

Bob (Grand Rapids, MI)

What do you think the sport of golf needs to do, if it can, to elevate itself to the level of more popular sports such as football, baseball etc.?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:31 PM)

Not sure there's one tangible thing, Bob. But something any sport needs more of is superstars. If the PGA Tour could snap its fingers and make 50 Jason Gore clones, I think they would. Of the younger players, maybe Ryan Moore or Bubba Watson or John B. Holmes could be a star someday -- the more the better for the Tour.

Jim (New Jersey)

What is Michael Campbell going to do this year on the PGA Tour because he is not allowed full time status and can only play in select events? Is he going to use the maximum number of exemptions that are allowed? Or play more European Tour EVents?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:33 PM)

Great question. Campbell will compete in the majors and WGC events, but other than that, I assume he'll continue as a full-timer on the European Tour. For those who don't know, he is still being penalized for not filling out the minimum number of tournaments played when he was a Special Member a few years back.

Lee (New Zealand)

What major will Michael Campbell win next?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:34 PM)

In keeping with the Campbell theme... Interesting way of putting it. Will there be a next one? Could be, I'm not sure...but if it happens, I'm guessing British Open is his best bet.

Mike (LA, CA)

Jason - I'm laying $$ on big odds that KJ Choi is winning the Masters. Small bet - but a good one I think. Thoughts?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:36 PM)

Not a bad one...with Augusta National lengthened to some 7,450 yards or so, some players have said there are only about 8-10 players who even have a chance. I would say Choi is on that list.

ben (ny)

Ryan Moore is obviously a great player, do you think he can take it to the next level and be a rival for tiger over the next 10-15 years

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:40 PM)

A rival? Definitely. The rival? Not so sure...let's let him play on Tour a full season before we put such lofty goals on him. He'll be good, no doubt. Great? Maybe...

Jim (New Jersey)

Outside of the majors and the WGC events, do you think Colin Montgomerie is going to come play in the U.S. more and try to win for the first time here? I think it's pretty much now or never, and it seems as if he'on a resurgence after winning the Order of Merit.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:42 PM)

I think Monty is pretty set in his ways. Don't expect him to change his schedule anytime soon. He could still win on tour, though. Riviera (for the Nissan Open) could be a decent choice, since he plays there every year.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:43 PM)

Here comes Carl Pettersson, who's currently tied for third place in the event. Keep asking questions for Carl...

Carl Pettersson

(8:47 PM)

Aloha! Looking forward to your questions...

JP (Columbus, OH)

What do the players think about the new FedEx Cup? Seems a bit contrived to me...what significance does it really have?

Carl Pettersson

(8:49 PM)

I think the players are excited about a change of schedule. It's a new thing so you're not quite sure how well it's going to go, but I think maybe with some adjustments here and there it will be a fantastic thing for the PGA Tour and the public.

Doug Benton (Yuba City, CA)

Carl, what do you think is the most underrated aspect of professional golfers by the general public? Thanks and great round today!

Carl Pettersson

(8:50 PM)

All the travel and hard work.

tom (huntington beach ca)

Hey Carl...Good Job!...What was the toughest hole for you today?

Carl Pettersson

(8:51 PM)

No. 2 was pretty tough. Long par-3 with a left-to-right wind. I parred the hole.

Rasheed (Atlanta)

Carl, what do you think it will take for you to break through in a major, and which major do you think is best suited for your game?

Carl Pettersson

(8:52 PM)

Best major for me would probably be a British Open, it's suited for my game. To win one it would take a lot of hard work and luck.

Tommy (Oconto Falls, WI)

Carl, who is your favorite player to play with on tour? Good luck the next three days!!

Carl Pettersson

(8:52 PM)

My favorite player is probably Luke Donald. I'm good friends with him, so I like playing with him.

Ken (chicago)

On an average, how many balls hit/hours practiced would you say you spend a day?

Carl Pettersson

(8:53 PM)

If I'm hitting the ball well, I don't hit that many -- maybe a bucket or two. If I'm struggling, I'll hit until it feels right.

Doug Oney (Amherstburg, Ontario)

Carl, you're one of only 3 Swedish golfers to win an event on the PGA Tour, along with Jesper Parnevik and Gabriel Hjertstedt. Are there any other Swedes on the horizon that could make it #4?

Carl Pettersson

(8:54 PM)

Henrik Stenson is a really good player, plays mostly in Europe. Richard S. Johnson, who plays the PGA Tour is going to have a good year.

Luke (quincy, Il)

What do you think about Tiger and Phil not being there?

Carl Pettersson

(8:55 PM)

I can understand why they're not here because of the short offseason they have, but I also think it puts a bad taste in the mouth of the PGA Tour.

Rick (Atlanta)

Carl, how far in advance do you set up your schedule for the year and what's your thoughts on the schedule change in 2007?

Carl Pettersson

(8:56 PM)

It's tough to set a schedule for the year because it always seems like you're always trying to qualify for something or another, if it's a major or a world event.

Carl Pettersson

(8:56 PM)

Goodbye and thanks for the questions!

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(8:58 PM)

Thanks to Carl and thanks to everyone for your questions. We'll have another player in to join us soon, but in the meantime let's keep the golf chat going...

Ryan (Tallahassee, Fl)

How do you think Greg Kraft's comeback season will be this year???

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:03 PM)

Wow, a Greg Kraft question. I'm not all that familiar with his game, but when looking at Nationwide grads I always like the guys who have been on Tour before over the rookies. They know the courses, know where to stay on the road, feel more comfortable...I think that goes a long way.

Doug Benton (Yuba City, CA)

Can you give a brief description of this new FedEx Cup? I heard about it, but I'm not quite sure I understood it. Thanks.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:07 PM)

OK, not sure how brief I can be, but I'll try: Basically, from January through August (or so), players will accumulate points based on their finishes. The top 90 (or 125 or 156 -- the Tour hasn't decided yet) will then qualify for the FedEx Cup. the first three tournaments of the FedEx Cup (Deutsche Bank, Western and Barclays) will then sort out a top-30, who then play in a championships of sorts at the Tour Championships, with the winner earning billions and trillions of dollars. There's more to it, with seeding and ranking points involved -- and plenty the Tour hasn't even decided on yet -- but that's the main theme of the FedEx Cup. Sorry, that wasn't very brief.

Steve (Maui)

Jason what are the players saying about the new greens?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:09 PM)

Entering the first round, I had heard nothing but glowing reports from the players. All but two-time defending champ Stuart Appleby, who jokingly said he was disappointed after mastering the old greens the last two years.

Eric Brennan (Indiana)

With what I feel like is a VERY strong Q-School class on the PGA Tour this year, who will make an impact first, Jeff Overton, Bill Hass, or John Holmes??? Being an Indiana boy, I am rooting for Overton!!!

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:11 PM)

I like Overton, too, but that's some tough competition. Haas is a more seasoned player than those two, with a year of Nationwide Tour experience under his belt. Holmes will be fun to watch since he hits the ball a long way. I got an email from a WKU player the other day -- he played against Holmes (a Kentucky player) in college and swore he'd be great right away in the pros. We'll see...

Ben (IL)

Jason how many wins for Mickelson this yr do you think?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:13 PM)

Well, he had four last year and I don't see him getting many more than that, but he could match that total. He actually got lucky at BellSouth when JMO couldn't make a few short putts. I'll say three for Mickelson, but the big question is whether he gets a major.

Tom D (Bristol)

Who some tour rookies who can make an impact this year?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:14 PM)

Ryan Moore qualifies as a rookie and he's at the top of most experts' lists. Bill Haas is right there, too, as are the aforementioned Jeff Overton and John B. Holmes. Personally, I like Camilo Villegas to win the ROY award, but maybe I'm just overanalyzing.

Mitch (New York)

Who will be the next golfer everybody will talking about in the next 2 years...Who will challenge Woods, Singh and Mickelson with their game/persona?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:16 PM)

Well, the golfer everyone will be talking about and the golfer challenging Woods, Singh and Mickelson could be two very different people. Everyone will be talking about Moore, as well as Adam Scott and Sergio Garcia, but that's because most fans are always looking for a young fresh face to take down the best players, I think the biggest challenge could come from a lesser personality like David Howell, who as I mentioned before, reminds me of Retief Goosen.

David (Ocean Isle Beach)

How much does it cost to enter into a tournament such as the Mercedes Championships and do you have a sponsor?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:18 PM)

Unlike mini-tour events, there is no entry fee for PGA Tour events. If qualified, a member can simply play in the event.

steve (pa)

Do you think Fred Couples will win again on tour or will he have to wait till he turns 50????

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:22 PM)

It'll be tough for Freddie to get back in that winner's circle, but you never know. He played well last year. As for when he turns 50, I can see Couples playing a Greg Norman-like senior schedule, meaning just the majors and, possibly, nothing else. Just a hunch.

Jay (Atlanta,GA)

Do you picture there being any feel-good stories like Jason Gore this season?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:25 PM)

Wow. You're really asking me to look into the crystal ball right now. If there is a Jason Gore story in waiting right now, it could be Bubba Watson. He's a lefty, he averaged 334 yards per drive on the Nationwide Tour last year and his name is Bubba -- what's not to like? If he wins a tournament this year, he could be come one of the more marketable guys out here.

larry (cottondale fl)

Jason how will sergio garcia do this year

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:26 PM)

It's all in the flatstick. If he can turn around his putting while keeping his great ball-striking intact, he'll be a factor. But you can't win out here if you don't roll the rock. Sergio was bottom 10 in both putts per round and putting average last year.

jason (Taiwan)

Is Vijay on his going to be concidered up there with the great or just a player who played alot?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:29 PM)

Vijay's already a Hall of Famer (technically, although he won't be formally inducted until next year), so yeah, I think that qualifies him as a great player. Three major wins is a terrific career, especially during the Tiger era.

Jay (Atlanta,GA)

Is David Duval trying to turn his career around or is he still in the tank?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:31 PM)

I would say a little of both. We keep hearing about how happy Duval is with his current life, but he can't be happy with his results on the course. Personally, I refuse to believe a player who was once so good can have his skills diminished so quickly -- he may not be great again, but he can be pretty good.

Cathy (Woodstock, On)

Jason, I like Camilo Villegas as well, but does he a 2006 pga card to play on tour?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:32 PM)

Yes, he does. Villegas entered 2005 without status on the Nationwide Tour, but quickly became exempt on that tour and finished in the top-21 (14th if I remember correctly) on the money list to receive his card.

jason (Taiwan)

Do the tour players who play in the afternoon try to catch on of the morning rounds to see how the course is playing?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:33 PM)

With such a limited field here, that's an impossibility. But at bigger tournaments like the majors, players will absolutely check out TV coverage to see how the greens are rolling and what the pin positions look like.

Vinod (Blackfoot,ID)

Is Phil the best lefty golfer of all time?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:35 PM)

Yeah, I don't think there's any doubt about that. Off the top of my head, Bob Charles, Mike Weir...any other lefties who have won majors? I'm sure I'm missing one or two...but Phil's got to be the best of the bunch.

Bradley Guye (Solon, Ohio)

Who do you like at Medinah this year? Sergio?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:38 PM)

Nope, not at all. Just because he played well there seven years ago doesn't mean a thing. All of the usual suspects (Tiger, Singh, Mickelson) could be up there, but I think the PGA could be the chance for a second-tier player who is ready to win a big one. Maybe Tim Clark, Chris DiMarco or David Howell could fare well at Medinah.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:40 PM)

Ladies and gentlemen...as promised on the ESPN telecast, Hank Haney will join us soon. Send in your questions for Hank. In the meantime, we may have one more PGA Tour player joining us as well...

Jay ((Irwin, PA))

How long is this show goin?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:41 PM)

We'll be here for another 45 minutes, so stay tuned for Hank and, perhaps, one other special guest.

Joe (North Carolina)

I am a big Jim Furyk fan &#x26; I think he is poised to have a break-out season with multiple victories after coming back strong from a wrist injury last year. I also think he is the 3rd. best US player on tour (behind Tiger &#x26; Phil). What are your thoughts on Furyk for 2006?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:45 PM)

Joe, I tend to agree with you. No offense to the Vijay Singh fans out there, but Furyk is poised to have a great year. I wouldn't be surprised to see him win, say, four events and one major this year.

Noah Goodwin (Framingham, MA)

Why do you think we have seen so many unknowns either playing extremley well, or actually winning major tournaments over the last 4 or 5 years?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:47 PM)

Perhaps the guys who aren't supposed to win just don't feel the pressure. Guys like Ben Curtis and Shaun Micheel can also fly under the radar a bit more for the first three days of a major, unlike Tiger, Vijay or Phil who know they'll besieged by fans and media. Either that, or these guys just get on an unbelievable roll for four days.

Alan (BAltimore)

Jason...any rules changes to look for in the 2006 vseason that will affect the game?

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:48 PM)

Nope, there are a few USGA rules changes this year. But none that will affect the Tour in a major way.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:49 PM)

Folks, Bart Bryant, winner of last year's Memorial and Tour Championship, is on his way to join us in The Show right now. Start sending your questions for Bart!

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:55 PM)

Bart Bryant went to New Mexico State, has a brother (Brad), who is also a pro golfer and lists his interests as movies and spending time with friends...

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(9:55 PM)

Now that you know a little more about him, keep those questions coming and he'll join us momentarily.

Bart Bryant

(9:58 PM)

Hello, here in Maui at Kapalua. Just got done playing, shot a 1-over, gonna have to get it going tomorrow.

Andrew (New York)

Hey Bart, which courses this year are your favorite and thus which tournaments should I pick you to win?

Bart Bryant

(9:59 PM)

Pick me to win in warm weather, usually dry conditions where the ball rolls and accuracy is a premium.

Jason (Taiwan)

Bart. As you get older, what changes did you have to make to continue to play well? Anything in your game change?

Bart Bryant

(10:01 PM)

In the last couple of years, I really upped my stretching routine, which seemed to help. If I had to attribute my succes to anything over the past year and a half, it would be a change in my putting. I got more over the ball and started using a slightly shorter putter.

henry (rockville)

bart, have you ever played a round with tiger woods or stuart appleby? i hear they are both pretty intimidating to tee it up with.

Bart Bryant

(10:01 PM)

I've played with both of them and it can be. I've only played with Tiger once at Bay Hill the last round in '05. Actually, ended up beating him in the tournament by a couple of shots.

Jordan S. (NJ)

Hey bart. How did it feel to win the Tour Championship when no one thought you could?

Bart Bryant

(10:02 PM)

Great.

Joe (North Carolina)

Bart, I was extremely impressed with your Tour Championship victory last season. You seemed to be in total control despite the likes of Woods chasing you. Do you think you are ready to take that next step and win a major in 2006?

Bart Bryant

(10:03 PM)

I would like to think that if I were at the top of my game, I could compete at a major. It's certainly one of my bigger goals this year.

Eric Brennan (Indiana)

Bart what do you contribute to the two wins last year in two very elite fields?? I had a chance to catch you in the last round at the Memorial and you were just great!! Best to you in 06!

Bart Bryant

(10:03 PM)

Momentum, becoming a better putter, more belief in my ability and probably a little luck.

Bradley Guye (Solon, Ohio)

hey Bart! Great year last year! I just got back from playing Kapalua Plantation a week ago. What did you find the hardest thing about the course today?

Bart Bryant

(10:04 PM)

The wind was extremely tough for hitting shots, but for me the wind seemed to affect my putting more than anything.

Jason (Taiwan)

We would like to know what is the avg.tour player's 7 iron and Pw. We like to compare with ours..

Bart Bryant

(10:05 PM)

7-iron on average is 165 and wedge is probably 130.

Bart Bryant

(10:05 PM)

Mine is 7-iron 160, wedge 125.

Rasheed (Atlanta)

Bart, are you a big swing coach/mental guru golfer, or more old school?

Bart Bryant

(10:06 PM)

I work with a guy named Brian Mogg, who has helped me tremendously with both over the past 4-5 years.

henry (rockville)

is vijay is nice as they say he is?

Bart Bryant

(10:07 PM)

Vijay obviously hasn't always handled the press great, but he's a great guy in the locker room.

Matt (Bethlehem, PA)

Who were your golfing role models growing up?

Bart Bryant

(10:08 PM)

Probably Nicklaus, Hogan and of course I looked up to my older brother Brad, who played the Tour for 22 years.

Jonathan Meyerholz (Virginia Beach, VA)

Hey Bart, do you keep track of how many under or over you are on that particular day or can you play having no idea where you stand?

Bart Bryant

(10:09 PM)

Yes, I always know what I am in relation to par.

Andy (Philadelphia)

Bart, is it harder to get a hole in one or a double eagle?

Bart Bryant

(10:10 PM)

It's harder to get a double-eagle because you're always having a long second shot where on a par-3 you may only have 140, 150 yards. That's why there's more holes-in-one than double-eagles.

Adam (Seattle)

So who of the big 4 has the best chance at player of the year?

Bart Bryant

(10:10 PM)

My money's on Tiger.

Paul MacLeod (Victoria BC)

Is the ball you use the same as I buy on the shelve?

Bart Bryant

(10:11 PM)

Yes. If you use the Pro-V1x, then yes, it is.

Rasheed (Atlanta)

You really were Cool Hand Bart at East Lake last year. Did your self-admitted struggles with your game shape your demeanor, or were you always that way?

Bart Bryant

(10:12 PM)

I think it's a little bit of both. I really appreciate the good times because they've been so hard to achieve, but I've never been real high-stressed about anything I do either.

Greg (CA)

Bart, do you think Joe Ogilvie will get a win this year?

Bart Bryant

(10:12 PM)

It would not surprise me at all. I'm very impressed with Joe's game.

Jonathan Meyerholz (Virginia Beach, VA)

Hey Bart, How do you divide your practice time on a typical practice day at home?

Bart Bryant

(10:14 PM)

When I practice at home on a day I don't play, I probably spend two hours hitting balls, an hour chipping and a half-hour putting. I would like to spend more time putting, but this seems to be the hardest thing on my back.

Bart Bryant

(10:14 PM)

Sorry I couldn't get to all your questions. Got to head out to the putting green to get a little work in. Hope you all have a great 2006.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(10:15 PM)

Hank Haney

(10:17 PM)

Hello everyone, this is Hank Haney and I am glad to be with you from Hawaii.

Andy (Philadelphia)

Hank, I hit my pw about 125, but can't hit my sw more than 80-90, any thoughts without seeing my swing?

Hank Haney

(10:19 PM)

Check the loft on your Sand Wedge it many have more loft than you think. A pitching wedge has around 48 degrees in today's sets and if your Sand Wedge has 56 the gap you mention is probably about right. You probably are a candidate for a gap wedge.

PJ (Phoenix, AZ)

Hank, what do you think Tiger has to focus on most now that he's hit his 30's ? Physically and on the course.

Hank Haney

(10:21 PM)

Tiger always focuses on trying to improve every part of his game, he leaves no stone unturned.

Jason (Taiwan)

Hank, We love you in Taiwan.. There is a guy at our club who hits is irons long (pw 150, 7 iron 180) but he can only hit his driver 265.. Any ideas why?

Hank Haney

(10:24 PM)

Anytime a player is exceptionally long with his short irons he has the clubface closed at the top of his swing, that reduces the loft of the club and adds distance with the short irons. A pitching wedge isn't really meant to go 150 yards. Thanks for your comments, I hope to visit Taiwan in the near future.

Rasheed (Atlanta)

Other than Mark O'Meara, do you work with any other PGA Tour golfers as extensively as you do Tiger?

Hank Haney

(10:25 PM)

I just work with Tiger and Mark. That is plenty to keep me busy.

mike (hamilton canada)

sergio garcia is the most overrated golfer ever sure he is young but he hasnt done anything to prove himself lately

Hank Haney

(10:28 PM)

That is a little bit strong there, Sergio is a great player and his record is pretty darn good. He is one of the best ball-strikers on the PGA Tour and certainly one of the best players not to have won a major yet.

Noah Goodwin (Framingham, MA)

Hi Hank, I am a 17 year old aspiring golfer and play in a lot of local tournaments. I mainly struggle with reverting back to my bad habits when I am under pressure. I was just wondering what you would say is the key to building a swing that can hold up under pressure?

Hank Haney

(10:29 PM)

Every golfer in the world reverts back to his bad habits under pressure, just keep trying to get better and be patient with yourself, golf is a hard game.

(10:30 PM)

Noah Goodwin (Framingham, MA)

Hank Haney

(10:30 PM)

Dave (Rockford, IL)

Hi Hank, What drill do you recommend to use to fix an over the top swing? My divot mark is going left but the ball goes relatively straigt (towards my target).

Hank Haney

(10:32 PM)

Take practice swings with the club up off the ground and try and make a reverse loop with the club coming underneath the backswing in the downswing.

Roe (Louisiana)

What is the biggest thing a amautuer can learn watching the pro's on tv

Hank Haney

(10:33 PM)

Pre shot routines are pretty darn important and the pro's do it really well.

Jake (Fort Wayne)

What course is your favorite place to play as far as atmosphere?

Hank Haney

(10:35 PM)

The Vaquero Club in Westlake, Texas is a Tom Fazio course that is managed by Mike Abbott who is the best at making people feel special.

Zach (IL)

What do you think is the main difference between a good amateur golfer who can break par and the guys playing on the tour?

Hank Haney

(10:37 PM)

The differences are so big it is hard to understand, every part of a pro's game is so refined, but the short games of the pro's are probably the biggest differences.

Rasheed (Atlanta)

How did you get started in the game, and what made you gravitate toward teaching? You're obviously very good at it, very patient.

Hank Haney

(10:39 PM)

My father started me in golf and I just always loved the challenge of the game. As far as teaching, it is the greatest job anyone could have, helping other people have more fun, what could be better than that. Patience is a part of teaching, when you realize how hard the game of golf is it is easy to be patient.

Hank Haney

(10:39 PM)

pretty good, we are in hawaii, rough job here

luke (IL)

What do you think causes Vijay to struggle on the greens? Is it mental?

Hank Haney

(10:41 PM)

It sure isn't from lack of practice, Vijah works so hard it is unreal. Sometimes he struggles with his speed and sometimes it is his reads on the greens and sometimes it is his stroke and when you add it all up it means some tough times. Don't think Vijah is some kind of terrible putter however, you don't win as much as he does without being a pretty darn good putter.

Hank Haney

(10:42 PM)

I think the sponsors would tell you Tiger, John Daly and Phil would be the top 3.

Alex (Toronto (Canada))

How much influence did you have on Tiger's swing change last year?

Hank Haney

(10:44 PM)

Hopefully I had some, but Tiger is pretty special with or without much help.

Hank Haney

(10:45 PM)

Got to run guys, hopefully I will talk to you again tomorrow. Thanks for the great questions and make sure you watch ESPN and if you need some help with your golf game come see us at an ESPN Golf School.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(10:47 PM)

That's it for The Show at the Mercedes Championships for today. But the good news is we've got three more days of chats scheduled. Didn't get your question answered today? Log onto http://proxy.espn.go.com/chat/chatESPN?event_id=10297 and ask your question in advance as we'll be joined by more special guests on Friday at 7 p.m. ET.

Jason Sobel, ESPN.com golf editor

(10:48 PM)

Thanks to Zach Johnson, Carl Pettersson, Bart Bryant and Hank Haney for joining us and thanks to all of you golf fans for the great questions. See you tomorrow. Aloha and Mahalo!